ITV2 have confirmed that the final week of episodes of winter Love Island will continue to air from tonight (Monday 17th February). Saturday and Sunday nights’ episodes were cancelled out of respect for Caroline Flack’s family after the news of her tragic death broke on Saturday.
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The statement, shared by the ITV and Love Island Twitter accounts, read:
‘Many people at ITV knew Caroline well and held her in great affection. All of us are absolutely devastated at this tragic news. After careful consultation between Caroline’s representatives and the Love Island production team and given how close we still are to the news of Caroline’s tragic death we have decided not to broadcast tonight’s Love Island out of respect for Caroline’s family. Love Island will return tomorrow night which will include a tribute to Caroline who will be forever in our hearts.’
The news comes as some have called for the show to be scrapped altogether, as a lawyer for Caroline’s family confirmed that the star took her own life, the third person connected to the show to do so in the past three years following the deaths of Mike Thalassitis and Sophie Gradon.
Meanwhile, over 200,000 people have signed petitions calling for a new ‘Caroline’s law’, which would enforce tougher guidelines and penalties for newspapers and media outlets reporting on celebrities’ private lives. One of the petitions, started by Hollyoaks actress Stephanie Davis, asks for ‘new and stricter laws around safeguarding celebrities and people in the public eye’.
View this post on InstagramMy heart is broken we had something so special. I am so lost for words I am in so much pain I miss you so much I know you felt safe with me you always said I don’t think about anything else when I am with you and I was not allowed to be there this time I kept asking and asking. I will be your voice baby I promise I will ask all the questions you wanted and I will get all the answers nothing will bring you back but I will try make you proud everyday. I love you with all my heart 💔
Caroline’s management company said she had been ‘under huge pressure’ since the CPS refused to drop the charge of assault against her despite the fact that the alleged victim, her boyfriend Lewis Burton, did not want to press charges. Caroline’s trial was due to take place in March and her bail conditions stopped the couple from seeing each other, even though they were still in a relationship.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, you can call Samaritans free any time on 116 123 (this number will not appear on your phone bill), send an email to jo@samaritans.org or visit your local branch for support.
